[QUOTE]Originally posted by Ladyflyer
And lately the four strokes have been closing in and in some cases exceeding many of the 2 strokes in the horsepower race as well.
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Pretty interesting comments/opinions among the different flyers between 2 stroke vs. 4 stroke. However, there are incorrect information that needs to be corrected to clarify the facts.

As Ladyflyer stated above... " And lately the four strokes have been closing in and in some cases exceeding many of the 2 strokes in the horsepower race as well. " Well, this information is based on assumption. The trueth is... The best 4 stroke (which is a YS's) doesn't even come close in horse power to a 2 stroke in comparable size/displacement. There are .40's size 2 stroke that produces horse power in the range of 2.5-3.0 HP depending on application and tuning done by the manufactures (.40 Jett and Nelson engine). So to say a 4 stroke exceeding 2 stroke in horse power would be of false information. If it's torgue, then I would agree.

Yes. There are some benefits to a 4 stroke vs. 2 stroke, but those benefits must be weighted by the individual to make that decision based on what he/she will be doing. For example, if an individual want/need horse power, light weight and speed for his plane, then a 2 stroke is the way to go. But if the individual's looking for pulling power (run bigger prop), quieter run, less fuel consumption and to lift heavier airplane, then he's better of with a 4 stroke. That's the real benefits of a 4 stroke vs. 2 stroke.

As for a 4 stroke lasting longer or better engine to have... Well, that's just personal opinion and preference. The actuality would be the quality of materials that it's made out of. So, to say 4 stroke last longer would be incorrect also. For example, a Sport Jett .40 made out of the best quality materials would out last any 4 stroke out there guaranteed. Especially if it's tuned down a little. If one doesn't believe it, then prove me wrong if you will. Do it by counting how many flights you will get before your engine give out. So the answer for longer life on a 4 stroke is irrelavant. It really depend on how's the quality of the materials and how it's made.

Don't get me wrong, but I do like both (4 stroke and 2 stroke). Except, I use it based on the application (i.e. bigger and heavier air plane 4 stroke. Smaller, lighter and faster speed 2 stroke).

There are no real perfect engine's for all applications, wether it's a 4 stroke or a 2 stroke. So the answer would be... Buy what you think would be best suit your needs/application and enjoy. Hope this help answer yours/all others questions.

Sam S.